7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne, Neurath, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cologne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cologne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cologne is Rheinpark, a beloved park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture, a locally appreciated park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cologne Cathedral, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Old Market, a romantic public square and the perfect final attraction in Cologne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Cologne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Heidelberg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pleikartsförster Hof, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heidelberg. This car ride takes around 1 hour 32 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Neckarwiese (heidelberg), an often recommended park known for its mesmerizing features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Philosophers’ Way, a beloved hiking area.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Old Bridge Heidelberg and uncover the details of this romantic historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Heidelberger Marktplatz, an intriguing public square. For your last stop, consider Heidelberg Castle, a history-steeped castle that many travelers find worth the detour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pleikartsförster Hof. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the hamlet.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pleikartsförster Hof's best restaurants.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Rothenburg ob der Tauber. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pleikartsförster Hof and set your GPS to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. Upon reaching Rothenburg ob der Tauber, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Gallows Gate, a beloved sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber should see. Next, head to Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber). This history-steeped public square is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Medieval Crime Museum, an eye-catching museum popular among locals as well as travelers. German Christmas Museum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this beloved museum before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Castle Garden, an eye-catching park and a top attraction in the town.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Nuremberg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nuremberg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 17 min.

Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds is a well-known museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Nuremberg Castle, a breathtaking castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Schöner Brunnen, a picture-perfect monument.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Strobels Dortmund, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Extrablatt Dortmund is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Lord. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Say good night to Dortmund and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!